Strategic Communications & Digital Marketing Diploma

Program Overview

The Strategic Communications & Digital Marketing Diploma equips students with expertise in Strategic Communications, Public Relations, and Digital Marketing. This program addresses the evolving needs of today's communications professionals, preparing graduates to effectively manage brand reputation, engage audiences, and create impactful digital experiences.

Organizations increasingly require skilled communicators who can seamlessly integrate strategic communication, public relations, and digital marketing to foster organizational success.

Why Strategic Communications?

Modern organizations communicate through various platforms, including:

• Websites
• Social Media
• Media Interviews
• Internal Communications
• Advertising
• Public Relations
• Email Marketing
• Digital Campaigns

Graduates of this program emerge as adaptable communication professionals capable of thinking strategically and writing effectively across both traditional and digital channels.

Career Pathways

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse career roles across multiple sectors, including:

• Marketing and Advertising
• Public Relations
• Government
• Healthcare
• Non-Profit Organizations
• Technology
• Financial Services
• Education
• Tourism and Hospitality
• Professional Services

Learning Objectives

Throughout the program, students will learn to:

• Develop integrated communication and marketing strategies
• Create compelling content for digital and traditional media
• Manage social media and online communities
• Plan and execute public relations campaigns
• Conduct digital marketing initiatives
• Analyze audience and campaign performance
• Advise on strategic communications and crisis management
• Measure campaign effectiveness using analytics

Program Highlights

• Integrated curriculum combining strategic communications, public relations, and digital marketing
• Hands-on experience through real-world projects
• Practical training in branding and media relations
• Exposure to contemporary digital marketing platforms
• Instruction from industry-experienced educators
• Resume development and career preparation support
• Membership with the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) and the Canadian Agri-Food Marketing Alliance (CAFA)

Tuition & Fees

• Tuition Cost: $10,900 (including a $100 UWSA Fee)
• Estimated Textbook Costs: $1,500 (may vary based on purchasing choices)

Duration

The program spans 12 months, with classes held Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students will experience two one-week breaks during the program, as well as two weeks off for the winter recess.

Admission Requirements

To qualify for admission, candidates must:

• Be a high school graduate or possess a Mature Status Diploma, providing a high school transcript or equivalent (GED/Mature Grade 12 Diploma), or
• Be 18 years or older with at least 90 hours of coursework from an accredited post-secondary institution (with a minimum GPA of 2.5), and must present an official transcript for all previous post-secondary studies.

Work Experience

Applicants should have at least one year of professional work experience, preferably in communications or marketing.

English Language Requirements

Individuals who completed their previous education outside Canada must submit proof of meeting accepted English language proficiency measures.

Program Structure

The program employs a hybrid learning model, combining in-class instruction with online coursework to facilitate a flexible learning environment.

Objectives & Outcomes

Graduates will acquire advanced skills encompassing:

• Strategic Analysis and Influence
• Advising Leadership on communications and policy
• Development of Public Relations Strategies
• Relationship Building and Media Relations Expertise
• Analysis of Market Trends and Consumer Behavior
• Mastery of Professional Communication Tools
• Crisis and Change Management

Academic Credentials

Upon successful completion, students will receive:

• Strategic Communication Diploma
• Digital & Social Media Marketing Certificate

Technical Requirements

Students must have a laptop that meets specified technical requirements for optimal learning:

PC Requirements

• OS: Windows 11 (64 Bit) or Windows 10
• Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i5
• Graphics: Strong graphics card recommended
• Memory: 16+ GB RAM
• Hard Drive: 500+ GB SSD
• Connectivity: Intel Wi-Fi 5-6 AX201
• Webcam: HD (720P+) for online classes

Apple Requirements

• MacOS: Ventura or later
• Processor: Apple's M1, M2, or M3 with at least 8 Core CPU
• Memory: 16+ GB RAM
• Hard Drive: 500+ GB SSD
• Webcam: FaceTime HD (720P+) for online classes

Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue careers as:

• Communications Officer
• Community Relations Officer
• Digital and Social Media Coordinator
• Public Relations Coordinator
• Fund Development Officer

Internship Opportunities

Students have the opportunity to participate in an internship, providing practical experience in professional settings and allowing them to apply their skills in real-world environments. Internships foster networking and enhance graduate readiness for the workforce.

Student Life

Students at PACE enjoy numerous support services throughout their academic journey, including:

• Recruitment Coaching
• Academic Support Services
• Career Advising
• Networking Opportunities
• Student Events and Activities
• Access to University of Winnipeg amenities

Through these services, PACE ensures a comprehensive educational experience that supports students' success both academically and professionally.

The University of Winnipeg Professional, Applied and Continuing Education (PACE) is the continuing and professional education division of The University of Winnipeg, one of Canada's leading liberal arts and sciences universities. Since 1972, PACE has been nurturing minds and advancing careers through high quality, dynamic and innovative programs, offering more than 600 full-time and part-time programs, courses and seminars across a wide range of career and academic fields.

PACE is located in Buhler Centre in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. It operates under the academic umbrella and outstanding reputation of The University of Winnipeg, which is recognised nationally for academics, inclusion and socially just values. PACE students have access to UWinnipeg's broader campus community, facilities and student services while benefiting from PACE's focused, career-aligned and flexible programming.

Mission and educational philosophy

In a world of constant change, lifelong learning is a means to success. PACE's mission is to expand the potential of every student through a unique education model that blends university-level academics with practical, hands-on experience. Programs are designed in high-growth career fields with strong employment prospects, and are continually evolving to meet the changing needs of the job market.

The success of students is at the heart of everything PACE does. PACE provides unparalleled advantages including small class sizes and industry-aligned programs taught by accomplished professionals who bring real-world knowledge directly into the classroom. PACE's connections to industry leaders, professional associations and the local community provide additional benefits and often serve as a bridge to employment. 96% of PACE students reported satisfaction with the quality of their education.

Full-time diploma programs

PACE's full-time diploma programs are designed in collaboration with industry to prepare graduates for in-demand careers, delivered in just over one year. They combine applied learning, experienced instructors and real-world projects to enable graduates to transition confidently into the workforce. Current full-time programs include:

• Advanced Project Management and Technology Diploma (Hybrid)
• Applied Data Analytics Diploma (In-Class)
• Artificial Intelligence Diploma (In-Class)
• Business Analysis and Transformation Program (Hybrid)
• Construction Project Management Diploma (Hybrid)
• Educational Assistant Diploma (Hybrid)
• Human Resource Management Diploma — Accelerated (Hybrid)
• Strategic Communications and Digital Marketing Diploma (Hybrid)
• Supply Chain Management Diploma (Hybrid)

Part-time programs and courses

PACE's part-time offer spans evening, weekend and online formats, making it accessible to working professionals, career changers and lifelong learners at every stage. Over 600 part-time programs, courses and seminars are available across areas including project management, human resources, business management, network and ICT security, big data and machine learning, marketing, public relations and strategic communication. A dedicated Part-Time Timetable and online registration system allow students to plan and manage their studies flexibly.

Corporate Solutions

PACE's Corporate Solutions division works directly with organisations to design and deliver customised workplace training. From skill upgrading to leadership development and sector-specific professional development, Corporate Solutions provides tailored programmes that meet the needs of Manitoba employers and their teams, delivered on-site or at PACE facilities.

55 Plus Program

In partnership with The University of Winnipeg, PACE supports the 55 Plus Program, which offers mature learners the opportunity to audit regular UWinnipeg courses and engage in lifelong learning at the university level.

International students

PACE welcomes international students from around the world to its full-time diploma programs, offering a pathway to career-focused Canadian post-secondary education in Winnipeg. Dedicated support covers admission requirements, the study permit and immigration process, tuition and fees for international students, homestay and accommodation, student life and living in Winnipeg, and graduation and future pathways. PACE also runs regular live webinars for prospective international students and publishes detailed fact sheets and publications. International student success stories are featured on the PACE website, highlighting the career outcomes of graduates from a wide range of countries.

Pathways to UWinnipeg

PACE provides formal pathways for students to continue from PACE diploma programs into degree programs at The University of Winnipeg. Transfer credit arrangements allow eligible PACE graduates to apply their completed coursework towards a UWinnipeg undergraduate degree, extending the academic value of a PACE qualification and opening doors to further university-level study.

Internships and career development

Work-integrated learning is a core feature of PACE's full-time programs. Students have access to internship placements with industry partners, career development activities including résumé writing, interview preparation and job search support, networking opportunities, guest speakers and career fairs. PACE's industry connections across Manitoba mean that internship partners and employer contacts are embedded into program design from the start.

Industry partners

PACE works with a broad network of industry and community partners across Manitoba to ensure programs remain current, relevant and directly connected to the job market. Partners contribute to curriculum development, provide internship placements and participate in networking and career events. Current partners include:

• ACI Manitoba (Creative Manitoba)
• Winnipeg Harvest
• Investors Group
• People First HR Services
• CPA (Canadian Payroll Association)
• Great-West Life
• Canadian Youth Business Foundation
• Vine Multimedia
• George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation
• Pinnacle
• Pembina Trails School Division
• Seven Oaks School Division
• Organization and Staff Development, Government of Manitoba (with a formal articulation agreement for credit transfer toward UW Professional Studies programs)

Why UWinnipeg PACE

1. Over 50 years of professional, applied and continuing education since 1972, under the academic umbrella of The University of Winnipeg
2. More than 600 full-time and part-time programs, courses and seminars across high-growth career fields, delivered full-time, part-time, evenings, weekends and online
3. Full-time diploma programs designed with industry and delivered in just over one year, combining applied learning, real-world projects and career development
4. Small class sizes taught by experienced industry practitioners, with a 96% student satisfaction rate
5. A clear pathway from PACE diploma programs into undergraduate degrees at The University of Winnipeg through formal transfer credit arrangements
6. Internship programmes and employer connections built into full-time programs, with a broad Manitoba industry partner network
7. A welcoming, inclusive and socially just university environment in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, one of Canada's most multicultural cities